Does Your Business Need a Mobile App?

While most businesses understand they must integrate technology into their daily operations, a healthy number of companies also include mobile apps into the mix. A mobile presence is for some, a requirement, at least from a customer’s perspective.

Restaurants are a prime example of the usefulness of a mobile app. App user receives pings or alerts as they drive by a restaurant using beacon technology transmitting daily specials directly to the app.

If the restaurant uses a point system for rewards, the user can redeem points with their next purchase. Many valid reasons for deploying a mobile app exist, but is a mobile app appropriate for yours?

The latest statistics in 2018 show almost half of small businesses use mobile apps, and at least one-third more have plans to build their own. This statistic should show rapid growth in mobile app creation, but reality says different.

A surprising fact about business mobile apps tells us growth has stalled, remaining at 2017 levels. Further investigation uncovered a reason for lack of growth linked to a perception that mobile apps attract new customers.

Best for Existing Customers

Locating mobile apps via search is a fruitless venture in most cases. An overwhelming number of apps are available and locating them is difficult, contributing to reasons you shouldn’t consider a mobile app for attracting new customers.

Existing customers benefit more because, as in the previous restaurant app example, they receive push notifications with new offers and benefits specific to a location or customer. This application of a business app builds loyalty and repeat business.

Many businesses see continued success with their mobile apps compared to using a desktop PC. Built-in convenience and one-click functions improve repeat business and customers see real value going forward. Mobile apps are here to stay.

Mobile Payment Convenience

Mobile payments were once considered risky, but regarded as a requisite function of mobile apps today. As customers become more accustomed to mobile apps, they will expect to complete purchases from the app in one easy transaction.

Time and again, surveys show increased use of mobile payment apps, and expectation of more businesses adding payment functionality to their existing apps.

Will a Mobile App Help Your Business?

The numbers don’t lie about low numbers of businesses employing mobile apps. Cost versus benefits plays a role in deciding to go forward. However, the benefits discussed here should shed light on reasons to consider long-term benefits such as customer loyalty, building a larger customer base, and convenience for customers.

Don’t base your decision to build the app because other businesses built theirs. If, after careful consideration your decision to move forward is made, start with a minimal version. Keep costs down and experiment with the app. Is it meeting your expectations? If the app proves a good decision, add more features and build it out to meet your customers’ expectations.

If a mobile app benefits your business, it’s an easy decision to continue building it and adding greater versatility. Convenience for your customers and their loyalty determines the app’s worth.